The Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) approves Petrobras' wildlife plan for oil exploration at the mouth of the Amazon River

Taking another step toward the approval of the oil exploration bill in the Amazon, the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) has approved a fauna protection plan submitted by Petrobras, a publicly traded Brazilian corporation in the oil and gas sector. This approval represents a further stage in the environmental licensing process, which would allow the company to carry out oil exploration activities in Block 59, located at the mouth of the Amazon River.

The document, titled Plan for the Protection and Assistance of Oiled Fauna (PPAF), is part of the Individual Emergency Plan (PEI)—an essential prerequisite for the project's continuation. Its approval signifies that the plan meets all theoretical and methodological criteria, allowing the project to proceed to the next phase: conducting practical tests on potential impacts to fauna.

Petrobras aims to drill an exploratory well in deep waters off the coast of Amapá. Should the project proceed, it could pose a serious threat to local biodiversity. In the event of an oil spill, the chances of the ecosystem recovering are extremely low.

Within the Amazon River Mouth Basin lies the largest continuous corridor of mangroves worldwide. Beyond its remarkable biodiversity, this ecosystem is vital for the resilience of local communities. Additionally, the recently discovered—and still unexplored—Amazon Reef System is located in this region. Such natural wealth must not be compromised.

An essential aspect of this discussion is the debate surrounding Brazil’s Green Transition. The exploitation of fossil fuels directly contradicts ongoing efforts to expand the use of renewable energy—particularly solar and wind power—and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.

Another important point is Bill 2.159/2021, also known as the Devastation Law Project, which was recently approved by the Federal Senate and National Congress. This bill proposes the simplification of environmental licensing for large-scale ‘developments’, including oil exploitation in the Amazon.

To show resistance and help fight against the destruction of nature, visit www.pldadevastacao.org and sign the online petition opposing this bill.